8 IVF Success Tips for Making a Baby

Are you considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant? We offer 8 IVF success tips to help you and your partner relax during the IVF process and maximize your chances of getting pregnant.

IVF Success Tip#1: Do your homeworkIt takes time and patience to select a successful IVF center. When you screen potential IVF sites, ask questions! Research the clinics in your area. Compare the various sites based on different qualities such as:

Are the physicians board certified?

What specialties are they certified in?

Do the clinics use accredited labs?

What types of amenities and services are offered to patients?

Have they worked with many women of similar age with your particular health condition and procedure?

IVF Success Tip#2: Don't wait until it's too late.

Age affects fertility. Some experts estimate that as many as 1 in 3 women will have trouble with fertility after age 35, with most women struggling to conceive after they turn 40. To reduce the impact that age has on IVF success rates, start your IVF cycle as soon as you and your doctor decide that you are a good candidate for the procedure.

IVF Success Tip#3: Try acupunctureAsian cultures have used acupuncture to treat health issues for centuries. Multiple studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial to women who are undergoing the IVF process. Studies show that acupuncture may boost fertility when performed within one day of the embryo transfer.

IVF Success Tip#4: Don’t ignore the maleA semen analysis is important when going through IVF. Sperm quality can change as time passes, and sperm health can change in just one year's time. It is important for your partner to undergo a semen analysis before you begin an IVF cycle.

IVF Success Tip#5: Talk openly with your doctorAsk questions. Find out what to expect during the IVF process. Learn the dos and don'ts of taking care of yourself during your cycle. Write everything down, especially the directions for all of your medications. Once you understand more about how IVF works, you can boost your chances for a successful conception.

IVF Success Tip#6: Take time to relaxBalance the stress of IVF with activities that promote relaxation and wellness. Because of the intense stress involved, make sure you keep other life stressors to a minimum. Avoid making other major life changes such as moving to a new house or starting a new job while going through the IVF process. To help you relax, schedule regular spa treatments or date nights with your partner. Note: get your doctor's approval before doing any intense exercise or invasive physical spa treatments like deep tissue massage.

IVF Success Tip#7: Be patientThe intensity and waiting involved with IVF (screenings, testing, and procedures) is almost more than most can bear. Some couples have already waited months and even years to get pregnant. Then, they are immediately disappointed to find that the IVF process involves a lengthy time commitment. As you focus on staying patient during this time, an important IVF success tip is to relax and stay busy! Make plans to stay active with friends and family. Discover a hobby or a new activity that is relaxing and fun. Try to keep your mind off of any worries or potential setbacks during the IVF journey. And, most importantly, have hope that your doctors will do all they can to help you get pregnant and have a healthy baby.

IVF Success Tip#8: Talk to a counselorConsider talking to a mental health counselor if you feel anxious, depressed, or if your relationship feels strained. Some findings show that being involved in a stress management program or undergoing counseling may even boost your chances of conceiving. Above all, do not be ashamed or feel guilty if your emotions are overwhelming during this time. It is completely normal. Still, it will help you greatly to practice self-care during this time.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Report: National Summary.

American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Frequently Asked Questions About Infertility.

National Institutes of Health: Want to get pregnant? Just relax.

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Acupuncture Shows Promise in Improving Rates of Pregnancy Following IVF. 2008